thimble

views updated May 29 2018

thim·ble / ˈ[unvoicedth]imbəl/ • n. a metal or plastic cap with a closed end, worn to protect the finger and push the needle in sewing. ∎  a short metal tube or ferrule. ∎  Naut. a metal ring, concave on the outside, around which a loop of rope is spliced.

The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English

thimble

views updated May 14 2018

thimble †finger-stall OE. (only); finger-cap used in sewing XV. OE. þȳmel, f. þūma THUMB; see -LE1.

The Concise Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology T. F. HOAD

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